Montane Winter Spine

Montane Winter Spine

The Montane Winter Spine is a non stop, long distance race along the Pennine Way. The route covers 268 miles from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm in the Scottish Borders with a time limit of 156 hours.

The course crosses Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, Northumberland National Park, Hadrian's Wall and the Cheviots. Total ascent is listed as 10,732 metres and total descent as 10,941 metres. Typical January conditions are given as daytime temperatures between 0°C and 10°C and night temperatures between -10°C and 2°C, with around eight hours of daylight in January. Organisers note that runners may encounter deep snow, strong winds and heavy rain.

There are six main checkpoints where runners are offered hot meals, hot and cold drinks, sleeping space, toilets and showers at some locations, professional medical support, resupply bag handling, weather updates and race information. The race is described as unsupported in terms of private pacing or following support vehicles, although runners may use shops, cafes and pubs on route.

Entry requirements specify a minimum age of 21 and recent experience, such as a mountain, hill or moorland ultra over 100 miles or completion of a Montane Spine Challenger event. The entry fee is £1,345 with a deposit option of £600 and a remaining balance due 100 days before the race. The event lists 150 places available. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.